The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has called for strict adherence to the rule of law and constitutional procedures in the ongoing process for the potential removal of the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, which has led to her recent suspension.
In a statement issued on April 24, 2025, and signed by GBA President Ku Gyau Baffour and the National Secretary, the association noted that it had been closely monitoring developments over the past two months.
The General Council of the GBA, they said, had reviewed the situation during its meeting on March 27, 2025.
According to the GBA, as of that date, three separate petitions had been submitted for the removal of the Chief Justice, while two legal suits had also been filed at the Supreme Court challenging the procedures initiated.
The statement also confirmed that injunction applications had been submitted as part of those cases.
The GBA stressed its constitutional responsibility to defend freedom and justice, and to safeguard the independence of the judiciary.
It cited Articles 146(6) to 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution, which outline the process for the removal of a Chief Justice.
These include the formation of a five-member committee—two of whom must be Supreme Court judges and three civilians not affiliated with Parliament, the Council of State, or the legal profession—appointed by the President in consultation with the Council of State.
The GBA pointed out that, under Article 146(8) to (10), the sittings of such a committee must be held in camera, and the President, acting on advice from the Council of State, has the authority to suspend the Chief Justice pending the outcome of the inquiry.
While acknowledging the constitutional framework, the GBA expressed hope that all actors involved would be guided by the principles of the rule of law and the spirit of justice.
The association also reminded stakeholders of Article 296, which governs the exercise of discretionary powers, emphasizing that all actions must uphold the independence and public image of the judiciary.
The statement further reiterated the GBA’s commitment to defending the justice delivery system, acting as the conscience of society and the voice of the voiceless.
It affirmed the association’s role in upholding the Constitution and promoting confidence in Ghana’s legal institutions.
“The GBA shall remain the conscience of society, the voice of the voiceless and act to safeguard the Rule of Law and uphold the Constitution of the Republic,” the statement concluded.
Read full statement below:
